§ 21. Mr. Blackasked the Minister of Fuel and Power what steps are proposed to be taken, in view of the warning recently given by the Chairman of the London Electricity Board, to ensure that electricity boards continue to be able to connect all new consumers requiring an electricity supply.
§ Mr. P. Noel-BakerThe difficulties to which the Chairman of the London Electricity Board has drawn attention result from the rapid increase in the demand. In consequence, the distribution network now requires to be considerably re-inforced. Subject to the needs of re-armament and other essential work, everything will be done to enable the electricity boards to connect new consumers without undue delay.
§ Mr. BlackHaving regard to the fact that the Chairman of the London Electricity Board said that, unless further capital allocations were made, certain London districts would be forced to refuse new customers, including the new housing estates, for an indefinite period, is it possible for the Minister to give an assurance that that state of affairs will not be allowed to come upon us?
§ Mr. Noel-BakerNo one can give a general promise that everyone will be connected within a certain period when electricity is required. One of the major difficulties may be the supply of copper, for which the B.E.A. are in no way responsible.